Opened by Kei Okamoto and her partner, Shiro Gelato & Snack is a first-time hospitality venture for the pair. The constant stream of customers has quickly proven that the Japanese-snack slinger is a sure-fire success. Drawing people into the light-filled, charming space is undoubtedly the unique Japanese bites that are hard to by come on the coast – with people flocking to the cafe for the mochi-covered gelato (you can take a peek here!). Gelato flavours gracing the cabinet include premium matcha (already a crowd favourite), premium hojicha, black sesame, kinako, miso caramel, hokkaido milk, matcha white chocolate, honey cinnamon, strawberry milk, and yuzu and lemon. Then the choice of toppings is yours – get your gelato hand-wrapped in Warabi Mochi, or get it sprinkled with caramel nuts or Oreo pieces. Mad about matcha? Sip on a matcha soda, or you can quench your thirst with a Hojicha soda or yuzu soda.

If you’re keen to pair your sweet treat with a savoury morsel, be sure to snag a freshly made onigiri, a traditional Japanese rice ball made with rice sourced from the Tohoku region of Japan. The most popular flavour is Tori Tama, flavoured chicken mince with marinated egg. You can also grab Takana (Japanese leafy greens with mustard pickles and spices), Negi Miso (shallots, miso and citrus chilli paste), Mentai Mayo (a mix of spicy cod roe and Japanese mayo), spicy tuna, or salmon. The best part about the snacks? A bunch of the ingredients are imported from Japan, but everything is made in store – so you’re guaranteed a fresh, flavour-packed nosh every visit.

Visit Shiro Gelato & Snack in Southport for your mochi gelato fix. Head to our Stumble Guide for opening hours.